What was the first animated film to achieve commercial success?

The first animated film to achieve commercial success is widely recognized as "Gertie the Dinosaur," released in 1914. This film was significant because it was not only one of the earliest examples of animation but also introduced the concept of character interaction with a live performer, as animator Winsor McCay performed it live on stage alongside the film. "Gertie the Dinosaur" was innovative in its storytelling and character development, which attracted audiences and helped establish animation as a viable commercial art form.

The film's success marked a turning point for animated features, allowing for future projects to be developed with greater ambition and budget. McCay’s work paved the way for future animations by demonstrating that animated films could not only entertain audiences but also attract financial investment.

Although other films like "Steamboat Willie," "Fantasia," and "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" played significant roles in the evolution of animation and popular culture, they came later in the chronology of animated film history. "Steamboat Willie" is notable for being one of the first synchronized sound cartoons and achieving widespread fame but did not precede "Gertie the Dinosaur" in commercial success.